Story of Saint Clare of Assisi, Italy

St. Clare was born in Assisi, Italy on July 11, 1195. She was born to wealthy parents and at the age of twelve she refused marriage. St. Clare was so impressed with the Lenten sermon of St. Francis of Assisi in 1212 that she left home to consecrate her life to God. She founded the Franciscan Order of the Poor Clares around 1215 and took religious vows of strict poverty. St. Clare was a simple servant of God. She loved working with her hands and had a great love for the poor. Her life was one of great courage which led her on a spiritual journey for 42 years leaving a trail for others to follow. St. Clare died on August 11, 1253 and was canonized a saint by the Church in 1255.

In the tradition of St. Clare, our hearts are filled with love for the poor and the Franciscan way of life. Our lives are dedicated to God with a promise and commitment to help serve those in need wherever God leads us.